Experience the elegance of bonsai tree displays at the 17th annual Ancient Art of Bonsai Show on May 11 and 12 at the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden. From 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., members of the Albuquerque Bonsai Club will show off their best bonsai at the Botanic Garden Showroom. They will also answer questions and share tips and tricks about the ancient art.

Experienced bonsai club members will reveal how much time, care and expertise these miniature trees require, as well as offer helpful tips and techniques to make your bonsai simply stunning. Visit the multiple bonsai displays to understand different bonsai techniques in action. Bonsai varieties on display include multiple species, from traditional Asian trees to native New Mexico alligator juniper, piñon and mountain mahogany.

"The Albuquerque Bonsai Club puts on a world-class event every year and we're excited that they are back," said Catherine Hubbard, Botanic Garden Manager. "Bonsai is a beautiful and elegant art, and the club members will be sharing techniques and tips for everyone from beginners to experts."

Though the exact origins of bonsai are unknown, the art has been practiced in China since at least the Han Dynasty (206 B.C. - 220 A.D.). The first Western bonsai display appeared during the 1878 Universal Exhibition in Paris, but the art wasn't widely appreciated until the early 1930s.

The Bonsai Show is included with regular admission. For more information, email [email protected] or dial 311 locally (505-768-2000).